YouSaid · the spoken record

Van Oosterom

lines on the record: 1,049
first: 2013-08-19
most recent: 2019-10-29
sittings or episodes: 159
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“In view of time constraints, I will read out a shortened version of my statement. The full version will be available on Twitter. I align myself with the statement to be made by the observer of the European Union. First of all, I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Haysom and Executive Director Fedotov for their briefings, and Ambassador Tanin for his statement. I will make three points: the first, on security challenges; the second, on development and governance; and the third, on the functioning of the United Nations in Afghanistan. In terms of security challenges and regional cooperation, the report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) (S/2015/684) describes a worrisome increase in civilian casualties and a worsening overall security situation.”
2015-09-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7526 (2015) · source
“In conclusion, I would like to quote from the report of the High-level Panel on Peace Operations (see S/2015/446), which says: "We have truly entered an era of partnership peacekeeping, indeed of partnership in all aspects of the international peace and security agenda." Now is the time for the United Nations to reach out and strengthen those partnerships, developing mature and productive relationships based on trust, mutual responsibility and accountability. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is committed to remaining a partner in peace, justice and development for that worthy purpose.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“If exit strategies are nothing more than an afterthought, countries are at great risk of falling back into conflict. In our view, therefore, peacebuilding must be an essential element of every mission. It must be included in initial planning, and it must be part of a comprehensive vision for peace, justice and sustainable development for conflict situations. The United Nations and regional and subregional organizations have to make that shift together in order to save lives and prevent cycles of violence.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“In the political process, subregional organizations are often the best placed to help steer countries in conflict back onto the road to peace. Important recent examples in Africa are, of course, the Economic Community of West African States, the Economic Community of Central African States, the East African Community and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). In very tense and complicated situations, their efforts need to be enhanced and supported by the international community, for example by the IGAD-Plus formula. As was said earlier today, the European Union takes pride in our close cooperation with the African Union. My third point concerns the importance of regional organizations in the post-conflict phase. There, timely and coordinated efforts are needed to prevent a relapse into conflict.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“In Mali, the Netherlands is proud to be an active partner in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali to that effect. Of course, a political process is crucial to achieve peace. On the African continent, the Kingdom of the Netherlands pays tribute to the increasingly important role that the African Union (AU) is playing in maintaining peace and security. Great progress has been made in recent years in implementing the African Peace and Security Architecture. The Peace and Security Council has proved to be a key force behind the increased action and visibility of the AU. Today, AU missions are increasingly deployed ahead of United Nations missions, making them important instruments for stabilizing conflicts and guaranteeing security.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“is also a very important cooperation partner for us. The third example relates to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, of which the Netherlands is a founding member State. It usually follows a multidimensional approach, focusing on the politic, economic and human dimensions of conflict, and is therefore able to play a crucial role in monitoring and verifying the implementation of the Minsk agreement, which is the basis for a sustainable solution to the conflict in full respect of Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Also during conflict, regional organizations are crucial. In that phase, the international community must do its utmost to contain and mitigate the consequences of conflict and to resolve it. Peacekeeping is often needed to protect civilians and to create the conditions for peace.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“They are often aware of emerging conflicts very early on, and they are well placed to use tools such as mediation for conflict prevention, a point just made by our Armenian colleague. An interesting example is the Organization of American States Mission to Support the Peace Process in Colombia, implemented with the support of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. As many here are aware, Colombia is one of the neighbouring countries of our Kingdom. Our Kingdom consists of four autonomous countries, three of which - Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten - are in the Caribbean, (spoke in French) and we also consider Haiti to be a neighbouring country. (spoke in English) We are intensifying our Kingdom's cooperation with the the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) regional organization to address current regional security challenges, and therefore CARICOM.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“These partnerships, in our View, should include cooperation not only between international, regional and subregional organizations, but also between Governments, civil society, business communities and development organizations. Regional organizations play an essential role in addressing issues of peace and security. This applies to the prevention of conflict, the containment and resolution of conflict and rebuilding in the post- conflict phase. It is the ambition of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to be a partner for peace, justice and development in all these three phases. Let me touch on each of the three. First, on prevention, we believe that regional and subregional organizations are well positioned to understand the root causes of armed conflicts.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“Let me first express my appreciation to the presidency of Nigeria for organizing this important open debate. Let me also thank you, Madam President, for being here with us at this late hour and doing us the honour of being personally present here. In view of time constraints, I will read out a shortened version of my statement. The full version will be available on my Twitter account. I align myself with the statement made earlier by the observer of the European Union (EU), which gave an extensive overview of the ways in which the EU is playing its role as a regional organization and as a partner in confronting contemporary challenges to global peace and security. Only by forging stronger partnerships can the international community effectively address current challenges to peace and security.”
2015-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7505Resumption1 (2015) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands looks forward to further cooperating with the United Nations and its Member States to ensure better protection for journalists, flag bearers of freedom of expression. Journalists are crucial for peace, justice and development.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“Where a free press is threatened and investigative and independent journalism is absent, corruption and illegal activity are allowed to flourish. Journalists deserve full protection - not only in words, but also in deeds. In this regard I would like to point out the importance of the report of the Office of Internal Oversight Services produced last year that covered the mandates for the protection of civilians in United Nations peacekeeping operations (A/68/787). The report highlighted the need for further interventions to ensure adequate protection, a protection that is certainly also needed for journalists. It is of course the responsibility of States to maintain a safe environment for the media and to investigate and prosecute those responsible for committing violent acts againstjournalists.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“The protection ofjournalists in conflicts is closely connected to the prevention and prosecution of violence. Violent acts against journalists must be prosecuted. Over the past decade around 700 journalists have been killed worldwide for bringing news and information to the public. Imagine - this means more than one journalist killed every week for ten years. Nine out of ten of these killings go unpunished. We must fight this impunity of violence against journalists. First, impunity perpetuates violence and quite literally kills the story. Secondly, it leads to a climate of self-censorship. Journalists fearing for their own lives or for the lives of their loved ones refrain from covering stories, often the ones that most need to be told. That impunity needs to be addressed. Prosecution is the best prevention.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“The role of the media is relevant for promoting human rights, peace and conflict resolution. Therefore, it is vital thatjournalists be able to work freely without interference, without fear. Overall, the role ofjournalists in countries affected by conflict is unique, involving great risks and personal sacrifice. In this context, there is a specific role for United Nations peacekeeping missions in the protection of civilians, including journalists. An example of this is the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, in which the Netherlands is a partner with around 500 men and women. Freedom of the press is a critical element in the integrated approach we pursue in Mali, combining diplomacy, defence and development.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“Security Council resolution 1738 (2006) condemned attacks against journalists in conflict situations. Nevertheless - and other speakers have also said this today i journalists, including bloggers, are still the target of aggression, harassment, arbitrary detention. even extra-judicial killings. In the Kingdom of the Netherlands we remember in particular the seven Dutch journalists who lost their lives in past decades in various conflict areas, just doing their job. Threats againstjournalists directly affect the role of journalists before, during and after conflict. Journalists play a critical role in reporting on conflicts, revealing the horrors of war and prompting investigations of abuse. Journalists help to create an atmosphere of tolerance through the gathering and dissemination of non-partisan information.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands would like to thank the Lithuanian presidency of the Security Council for its initiative in hosting this important debate today. In honour of your presidency this month, allow me also to say in Lithuanian: "Aciu ponia Presidentas". We welcome the adoption this morning of resolution 2222 (2015), which we co-sponsored. I would, of course, like to align my intervention with the statement made by the observer of the European Union. I will read out a shortened version of my statement; the full version will be available on Twitter. Freedom of expression is a top priority for my country. It is crucial in achieving the three ambitions of the Kingdom of the Netherlands here at the United Nations: peace, justice and development.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“This is not just a question of disarmament; it is also an issue of development, democracy, human rights and human security." (S/PV4355, p. 4). Let those words serve as a rallying point for action on our behalf. For our part, the Kingdom of the Netherlands looks forward to continued work with our partners for peace, justice and development. Together, let us end the devastating effects of the illicit transfer, destabilizing accumulation and misuse of small arms and light weapons for peoples and societies worldwide.”
2015-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7442 (2015) · source
“This issue should also be part of broader security programs, such as security sector reform, as well as United Nations peace operations. As our Moroccan colleague, who preceded me, also mentioned, we see a direct link with anti-terrorism efforts. We pay tribute here to the cooperation the Kingdom of the Netherlands enjoys with the Kingdom of Morocco on anti-terrorism efforts. Together we are going to chair the Global Counter-terrorism Forum. In conclusion, in 2001 Secretary-General Koffi Annan stated the following while addressing the Security Council: "Small arms are easy to buy, easy to use, easy to transport and easy to conceal. Their proliferation exacerbates conflict, sparks refugee flows, undermines the rule of law and spawns a culture of violence and impunity.”
2015-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7442 (2015) · source
“My third point is on the need for a comprehensive approach to address small arms and light weapons issues. Such a comprehensive approach is of the utmost importance, as the effects ofillegal small arms and light weapons touch on many different policy areas. The availability and uncontrolled spread of small arms and light weapons feed political instability and conflicts. They threaten the conditions for social, economic and human development, and the presence of large quantities of such weapons in societies, especially in fragile States and under-governed areas, causes social tensions and fuels violence. Therefore, in our view, small arms and light weapons issues should be approached in a comprehensive, integrated manner, addressing good governance, strengthening the rule of law and providing alternative livelihood initiatives.”
2015-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7442 (2015) · source
“Secondly, let me stress the great importance of the ATT. Its entry into force in December 2014 was a great step forward, especially its obligation for the States party to the Treaty to set up export control systems. The inclusion of ammunition in the Treaty, of course, was vital, as it enables the weapons to be used. We are proud to have been an active participant in the drafting of the Treaty. The current challenge is to effectively implement the ATT and work towards its universalization. We call on all States Members of the United Nations to ratify the Treaty, as well as on the current signatories and States parties to the Treaty to make the first conference of State parties in Mexico City a success. Together we must implement the ATT.”
2015-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7442 (2015) · source
“I would like to make three points concerning the human cost, the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), and the need for a comprehensive approach. First, we all know that the human cost of the illicit trade, accumulation and misuse of small arms and light weapons is tremendous. Small arms and light weapons are the most deadly weapons worldwide. They are truly a global public ill. The proliferation of small arms and light weapons increases the risk that both smaller and larger conflicts will give rise to mass atrocities. The misuse of these weapons results in grave crimes and thereby poses a threat to international peace and security. We see a direct link with the protection of civilians in armed conflict and the responsibility to protect populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity.”
2015-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7442 (2015) · source
“Let me start by thanking Lithuania for taking the initiative to organize this very important open debate and also for the excellent concept note that has been circulated (S/2015/306, annex). It provides valuable guidance for our debate today. In the view of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the availability and uncontrolled spread of small arms and light weapons constitutes a threat to peace, justice and development in many regions around the world. Therefore, the Kingdom of the Netherlands welcomes this open debate and would like to encourage the Council to adopt the draft resolution that is under consideration. We align ourselves with the statement made earlier on behalf of the European Union. In view of time constraints, I will limit myselfto a shortened version of this speech. The full text will be available on Twitter.”
2015-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7442 (2015) · source
“In conclusion, the Kingdom of the Netherlands prides itself in being a partner for peace, justice and development. An old Dutch proverb says, "He who is young, controls the future". Let us work together for a future where the youth of today shall wield the tools of peace, justice and development. instead of the arms of hatred and terror.”
2015-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7432 (2015) · source
“Not only will it define their future, they will be the ones who in large measure will have to implement it. All sustainable development goals are relevant for the young people of today. Their voice must be heard; their commitment is crucial; their action is needed. As we speak, the Netherlands United Nations Youth Representative, Jilt van Schayik, is travelling from Amsterdam to South Africa, crossing more than 20 countries and passing through two continents. In good Dutch tradition, he is covering more than 11,000 kilometres by bicycle. The purpose ofhisjourney, called Building Bridges, is to listen to the young people in the countries he visits. We will use his input as valuable content for the post-2015 agenda. Young delegates like him are positive role models for other youth around the world.”
2015-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7432 (2015) · source
“Another specific activity includes our work with non-governmental organizations on this matter. As an example, we have financed a publication on strategic communication in countering the narrative of extremist organizations. The third issue concerns inclusiveness. The Netherlands firmly believes in the necessity of more inclusive decision-making, which should empower young people to voice their concerns. Young people should be active partners in tolerance and conflict prevention initiatives. We must ensure that their priorities are part of our policies. Governments should be responsive to the concerns of young people. This holds true in particular for the post-2015 sustainable development agenda. The young people of today are both an object and a subject of that agenda.”
2015-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7432 (2015) · source
“Municipalities are supported in their efforts to strengthen such community networks - for instance, by organizing group dialogues with parents, professionals and key opinion leaders, such as imams. The second issue I wish to discuss concerns our international activities. We are involved in many international initiatives. Let me mention the Radicalisation Awareness Network and the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum. Of course, we also support the work of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, which we are very happy to see represented in the Council. Let me also mention in particular the bilateral cooperation that exists between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Kingdom of Morocco in preventing terrorism and addressing radicalization.”
2015-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7432 (2015) · source
“We have developed a toolbox, including web portals, e-learning and networks of front-line professionals who can provide advice. Our schools have the duty to discuss citizenship and related values such as equality, the freedom of expression, the freedom of religion and freedom in general. My third point in this context is that it is important to be in contact with young people in the immediate vicinity of their communities. In order to influence groups of young people, we involve youth leaders to be voices of moderation and reason. At the local level that requires cooperation among schools, municipalities, the police, civil society and political and religious groups.”
2015-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7432 (2015) · source
“The Netherlands aims to enhance knowledge and expertise within the triangle of parents, schools and their social environment. In our view, parents play a key role in preventing radicalization. To reach parents, we have developed a set of tools and answers that provide guidance for education in this context. We organize local information sessions about recruitment methods and the dangers children face on the Internet, an issue many of us have addressed before. In addition, the Netherlands has set up a national advisory centre that offers support to family members of radicalized individuals. Furthermore, we aim to enhance the expertise of professionals in education to better identify and discuss radicalization. We train many teachers in recognizing radicalization and acting upon it.”
2015-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7432 (2015) · source
“First, let me thank the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for the initiative to organize this important and very timely debate. The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statement made earlier by the observer of the European Union. In View of time constraints, I will limit myself to the main points of my statement. My full statement will be available via my Twitter account. I will address three issues: education, our international involvement and the importance of inclusiveness. First, with regard to education, the Netherlands has an active policy aimed at strengthening the role of young people in countering violent extremism and promoting peace. Our approach is characterized by strengthening the role of families, professionals and their communities in countering radicalization and social tensions.”
2015-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7432 (2015) · source
“Impunity would simply create a new breeding ground for new violent extremism. National capacities to deal with justice and accountability must be strengthened as part of the transition and post- transition process. If accountability cannot be achieved domestically, the Netherlands calls on the Council to request the International Criminal Court in the Hague to play its role as a court of last resort. In conclusion, the future of the multi-ethnic and religious landscape of the region is under threat. This needs a firm collective response from us, the States Members of the United Nations. The principles of the United Nations Charter are at stake. The Kingdom of the Netherlands, as a partner for peace, justice and development, will continue to contribute to that firm response.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“The international community has a collective responsibility to protect civilian populations from international crimes. That holds especially true for vulnerable groups in society, like ethnic and religious minorities. My Government urges the permanent members of the Security Council to agree to refrain from the use of their veto in situations where civilians are threatened with mass atrocity crimes. We salute the initiative to that effect of the Government of France. My third point centres on accountability. Military action is not enough. Efforts must be made to strengthen the rule of law and to build inclusive societies. Furthermore, we need justice. The perpetrators of those heinous crimes need to be held accountable. Justice and accountability should be included in the political process from the start.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“As amember ofthe international coalition against the Islamic State in Iraq and Sham (ISIS), we have contributed 250 military personnel and six F-16 aircraft. Furthermore, we have deployed 130 Dutch military trainers to train local coalition forces to fight these extremist groups. Furthermore, the Kingdom of the Netherlands co-chairs the Foreign Terrorist Fighters Working Group within the anti-ISIS coalition. Of course, we also provide humanitarian assistance to countries facing the challenge of hundreds of thousands of refugees as a result of this Violence. To the Syrian crisis alone, my Kingdom has contributed more than â‚¬114 million since 2012, and at the Kuwait pledging conference next week my country will further step up its efforts to contribute to humanitarian assistance in the region. We hope other States will do the same.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“This includes the right to have any religion, the right to change religion or to have no religion at all. Human rights, in our view, apply to all. To exclude any person belonging to a particular group would undermine the universality of our common human rights. My Government is therefore deeply worried about the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East. The brutality of the crimes committed by extremist groups in the region is unparalleled in recent history. The future of the multi-ethnic and religious landscape of the Middle East is under imminent threat. My second point concerns the actions taken by my Government. We are committed in our fight against violent extremism in the region.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statement made earlier by the European Union (EU). I will read out a short version of my statement. My full text will be available via my Twitter account in View of time constraints. First of all, I would like to thank France for organizing this very important open debate on this very urgent issue, which directs our attention to the violent extremism, intolerance, religious and ethnic hatred that have gained ground in recent months, in particular in the Middle East. The Kingdom of the Netherlands, as a partner for peace, justice and development, applauds the inclusive nature of this debate. I will make three points: on human rights, on the actions my Kingdom has taken, and on accountability. On human rights, every individual must have the freedom to express his or her identity.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“We believe that the Council should therefore expand the listing criteria under resolution 1612 (2005) to include abductions of children, and it could do so in a non-paper. The problem of the abduction of children by extremist groups is increasing and needs to be addressed. In conclusion, all children deserve protection against all forms of violence. Sexual abduction, abuse, mutilation and the killing of children during armed conflict simply has to stop. The Kingdom of the Netherlands, as a partner for peace, justice and development, will do its utmost to achieve those goals.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“Furthermore, the Council could request input from the Special Rapporteur on issues such as the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography. Ensuring accountability for the crimes committed against children should be a key priority for the Security Council. Documentation can be an important step to that end. The Kingdom of the Netherlands supports organizations that document war crimes. Last February, we organized an expert conference in The Hague on documenting war crimes in Syria. Ensuring accountability for the atrocious crimes in Syria, also crimes against children, is a historic responsibility for the Council. The Kingdom of the Netherlands believes that the Security Council should play a more active role in the documentation and monitoring of crimes against children in armed conflict.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“The acts of some extremist groups, such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham, are atrocious and abhorrent. Those groups seem to take pride in the trafficking of young girls, forcing them to marry and exploiting them as sex slaves. Because of the vulnerability of girls, the Netherlands has deployed several experts on sexual and gender-based violence in United Nations peacekeeping missions around the world, and we intend to step up our efforts in that area. My third point is on sanctions and accountability. We need a stronger focus on child protection in the Council's sanctions committees. That could be realized by enhancing cooperation between the sanctions committees on the one hand and the Security Council Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict on the other.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“UNICEF has the mandate to address the rights of children with both State and non-State actors. We urge States to cooperate closely with UNICEF to more effectively address those violations. In that context, a UNICEF symposium on the effects of conflict on the mental health of children will take place in The Hague from 26 to 28 May 2015. Furthermore, the Kingdom of the Netherlands would like to express its continued support for the concept of the responsibility to protect. National Governments and the international community share a responsibility to enable children to grow up in a safe and peaceful environment. My second point is on the particular risks for girls. They demand specific attention from the Council. Girls are especially vulnerable targets of sexual violence.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“The fate of children is closely linked to peace, justice and development, the three priorities of the Kingdom of the Netherlands here at the United Nations. Today allow me to make three specific points: prevention, the vulnerability of girls and accountability. My first point is on prevention and mediation. We need an integrated approach for the prevention of the abuse of children's rights by non-State armed groups before, during and after conflict. We need to invest more capacity and resources in mediation by the United Nations, and the relevant programme run by the Department of Political Affairs, which we support, should be strengthened. The mandates of United Nations missions should be well coordinated to address the protection of children coherently.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statement made earlier by the observer of the European Union. First, let me thank France for organizing this important debate and in particular for extending an invitation to Member States to make concrete proposals for a non-paper. We have included some practical suggestions in my statement. I would also like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Leila Zerrougui for the important role she plays in promoting and protecting the rights of children affected by armed conflict. (spoke in French) I was personally touched by the story told by my neighbour, Mr. Junior Nzita. It truly touched my heart, and I thank him. (spoke in English) The protection of children in armed conflict should be a major concern for all of us.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“Let me end by quoting a speech delivered by my Minister for Foreign Affairs, Albert Koenders, last week in which he quoted Willy Brandt: "Peace is not everything, but everything is nothing without peace."”
2015-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7389 (2015) · source
“The Netherlands has full confidence in the quality of the dispute settlement mechanisms mentioned in the Charter. We strongly believe that States should not only submit themselves to those mechanisms, but also should abide by the decisions taken through them. In conclusion, the Netherlands strongly believes in its partnership with the United Nations for peace, justice and development. It is that firm belief that serves as the foundation of our candidature for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council for the 2017-2018 term. The Netherlands is ready to play its part as a constructive partner in the Council in the pursuit of the maintenance of international peace and security.”
2015-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7389 (2015) · source
“Among other institutions, the Kingdom is proud to host the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague, the legal capital of the world. We strongly encourage the Council to take measures to expand the use of the peaceful settlement of disputes, both in relation to State and non-State actors. Under Articles 34 and 36 of the Charter, the Council can recommend that parties settle their disputes peacefully. The Council can also suggest the specific form it deems most suitable and request to be briefed about the results. In cases where the International Court of Justice has jurisdiction, the Council can also strongly urge the parties to take their disputes to the Court. The Council could also encourage parties to accept the Court's jurisdiction when the Court does not yet have jurisdiction.”
2015-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7389 (2015) · source
“In our view, in those situations the use of the veto by the permanent members of the Council ought to be limited. In that respect, we agree with the statement delivered earlier by the Permanent Representative of the Maldives, which was very clear. We therefore continue to laud and support the French initiative for a voluntary code of conduct for the five permanent members to abstain from using the veto in such situations. We believe that the peaceful settlement of disputes is a vital tool in the prevention of conflicts. Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations recognizes that crucial objective. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is deeply committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes, with a special emphasis on judicial settlements.”
2015-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7389 (2015) · source
“The Kingdom of the Netherlands also welcomes a more forward-looking role for the Secretary-General in relation to the Council - for instance, through regular briefings to the Council in which he can raise issues of concern, even ifthey are not yet formally on the agenda of the Council. The mediation work of the Secretary- General could be further enhanced. We also believe that the interaction between Council members and other United Nations Members could be further improved. My second point concerns the use of the veto. We have been witness too often to mass atrocities in situations where preventive measures failed. On occasion the Council has been unable to act to address such situations because of the contentious use of the veto.”
2015-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7389 (2015) · source
“The best way to maintain peace and security is to prevent conflicts from happening - a point just made by our colleague from Burundi. The primary responsibility to prevent conflicts, of course, lies with the State. At the same time, the international community also shares in that responsibility. We call upon the Council to use the tools mentioned in Chapter VI of the Charter to prevent conflicts. A crucial element of conflict prevention is immediate action on the part of the Council in response to early warning. Leadership, clear procedures and means to act are necessary. That is especially so when there are signals that large-scale human rights violations or mass atrocities are about to take place. The Council has a special responsibility to protect in that context.”
2015-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7389 (2015) · source
“Let me express our deep appreciation to the People's Republic of China for organizing this important and rich open debate. I align myself with the statement made by the observer of the European Union, as well as with the statement made by the representative of Austria on behalf of the Group of Friends of the Rule of Law. I will deliver an abridged version of my statement; the full version will be available via Twitter. The Kingdom of the Netherlands has valued the United Nations since its inception 70 years ago as an institution indispensable to the achievement of global peace, justice and development. With that in mind, I will focus on conflict prevention, the use of the veto and the peaceful settlement of disputes.”
2015-02-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7389 (2015) · source
“We have tried to do so, for instance, in Syria and Mali. A final thought is that when preventing or addressing conflicts, Member States should combine diplomacy with defence and development. It should be a comprehensive approach, which we call the 3-D approach. In conclusion, the Kingdom of the Netherlands is a partner for peace, justice and development. We are therefore committed to promoting inclusive stable societies. We support the efforts of the United Nations and work bilaterally to prevent conflicts and as a partner for countries affected by conflicts. Without the inclusion of all ofthe groups comprising a society, there can be no real peace, justice or sustainable development.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“They can actively contribute to inclusive development for the maintenance of international peace and security while working closely with the United Nations and taking practical steps in their national policies. For example, they could work more intensively with the Department of Political Affairs on mediation, conflict prevention and inclusive political processes. My country has done so in Yemen, for instance. They could also work more intensively with the Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Reconstruction of the United Nations Development Programme in support of efforts in Tunisia and Iraq. Member States can also take initiatives on a national basis. In the Netherlands we have put significant effort into creating processes for including all the relevant actors in countries affected by conflict.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“We believe it can contribute to inclusive development by incorporating the following concepts. First, it should be universal, for all people in all countries, including my own. Secondly, it should be multidimensional and address the social, environmental, economic and peace- and governance-related aspects of development and inequality. Thirdly, it should be a multi-actor agenda that includes all the relevant stakeholders. And, fourthly, it should be based on our common values, such as inclusiveness, human rights and equality. If we can achieve that, it will be the best basis for structurally addressing and preventing conflicts. We can also see specific responsibilities for United Nations States members.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“The Security Council has the important task of sending out this type of early- warning signals, assessing whether they constitute a risk to international peace and security and taking political or other action if that is necessary. But more structural prevention of conflicts remains our biggest challenge, and that brings me to the connection between development and the prevention of conflict. The Kingdom of the Netherlands believes that ensuring stable societies is the best way to guarantee the prevention of internal conflict. That means that inclusion and social cohesion should be guiding principles for development strategies. For economic growth to benefit the poor, it must be inclusive, and therefore together we must make the post-2015 development agenda as inclusive as possible.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source